Second arrest over Korean fishermen attack

A man who's been on the run for months after allegedly taking part in a vicious axe attack on two Korean fishermen in Northland has finally been tracked down in Taumarunui.

It took police nearly four months to track down the 37-year-old who has now been arrested for his alleged part in the assault at the Ti Point Wharf, near Leigh, at Easter.

One of the attackers was armed with a small axe, which he used to assault one of the victims despite the man giving up his wallet and car keys.

This morning Taumarunui police were tipped off the 37-year-old was at a local address and he was arrested without incident. He faces charges of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

In April, police arrested a 34-year-old man over the attack, but the 37-year-old had been actively evading them.

"This man had connections in parts of the upper North Island and despite our best efforts, had managed to get away from us until this morning," Detective Senior Sergeant Megan Goldie said.

He said the assault was "very nasty" and had shocked members of the community.

"We've spoken to the victims this afternoon to tell them the news and they are both very relieved."

The man is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court tomorrow morning.